The act raised the speed limit for light locomotives from four to 14 mph and abolished the requirement for a vehicle to be preceded by a man on foot waving a red flag.

The run marks the end of the Royal Automobile Club’s London Motor Week, in which it organises a variety of functions and events, including the Regent Street Motor Show scheduled the day before the cars set off for Brighton.

World-famous auctioneer and main sponsor Bonhams will also host a veteran car and memorabilia sale during the week, offering an exciting collection to would-be buyers keen on historic cars.